Residents in Millbrae are concerned about a recent uptick in home burglaries, and some would like to see more patrols.
The City Council organized a special town hall meeting Thursday night in response to the concerns, hoping to come together with residents on a resolution to curb the recent rash of crimes.
Officials with the San Mateo County Sheriff's Office, which took over police patrols in the Peninsula city in 2012, acknowledged there’s been a slight increase in home burglaries, but they couldn't provide exact figures.
"The numbers are showing that crimes in Millbrae are just slightly higher, but not significantly higher compared to our neighboring cities," said Salvador Zuno, a spokesman for the Sheriff's Office.
According crime reports on the Sheriff's Office website, there have been roughly 25 home burglaries in Millbrae since April.
Resident Charlie Recasens, who has lived in the city for more than 30 years, said he hasn't heard about the burglaries. He said as long as his dog is in the house, he feels safe.
"Anyone comes near the house, and she barks," Recasens said.
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But not everyone feels so secure. Resident Veronica Lopez said she would feel safer if there were more patrols.
"It would be nice if we felt we had the protection because we don’t have that," Lopez said before Thursday night's meeting. "It’s very limited. A lot of people are going to say that tonight."
Zuno said deputies will listen to neighbors' concerns and offer security tips.
"Secure your doors, windows, side gates, garages," the Sheriff's Office advises. "Make sure they’re locked."
Mayor Anne Oliva said the city recently increased its public safety budget, and it could increase again.
